WHAT WE DO

Working since 1981 to build an inclusive community in which all people feel welcome and have the tools necessary to succeed.

International House has helped thousands of Charlotte's foreign-born residents successfully integrate into our community over the years by providing low-cost English classes, personalized tutoring to help people prepare to become U.S. citizens, affordable legal assistance to help people obtain U.S. citizenship or permanent resident status, and critical summer learning opportunities for young English-language learners. At the same time, we help promote the development of a more tolerant community that recognizes the value and contributions of immigrants to Charlotte's economy, culture and lifestyle, and that offers these newcomers the space and support network needed to be successful in their new home. Our international visitors program introduces leaders from other countries to Charlotte and the businesses and people who make up our city. With opportunities such as our home-hosting program for international visitors and foreign language conversation hours, residents can meet and learn about people from other cultures and countries.

Get involved and explore the world without having to leave Charlotte!

OUR IMPACT

900

PEOPLE

100

COUNTRIES

37

YEARS

Helped more than 900 PEOPLE become U.S. citizens or permanent residents in the last five years alone

Brought emerging leaders from more than 100 COUNTRIES to Charlotte to build cross-border relationships

37 YEARS of changing lives for the better, all while building a more vibrant, inclusive and welcoming Charlotte

I was so glad that International House took my case. I could finally afford help with the immigration paperwork. At International House I had this feeling that I was welcomed. You know, certain homes you enter you feel uncomfortable, and certain homes you enter you feel comfortable. I felt so comfortable there, it was like I’m home already.

— Felicia Kpan, originally from Liberia, a Immigration Law Clinic client, and a recently naturalized U.S. citizen.

For more stories like these, check out our Faces of International House page:

The Rising Readers program – conducted in partnership with Charlotte Mecklenburg Schools – is the only summer learning program aimed specifically at improving the literacy skills of elementary age English-Language Learners.

The English as a Second Language and Citizenship Preparation Programs pair adult students with volunteer tutors who provide personalized support and educational guidance so they can improve their English and learn how to be engaged, responsible citizens.